Just the fact that there are three disciplines involved with triathlon make it a sport that requires quite a lot of equipment in order to compete at any level. That in turn means that there are dozens and dozens of gift ideas for the triathlete in your life.
To start with, obtaining accurate information and guidance is key to becoming a successful triathlete. Information on how to train, how to avoid injury, how to actually take part in a race, what supplements are best, and what equipment is best are just some of a few questions that a triathlete needs to find answers to before even beginning training.
Books and tapes are extremely important ways to gain knowledge from athletes and authors who have a long history in the sport and are willing to pass that information on. By far, one of the best books on the market today for the new triathlete who has the Ironman triathlon on his mind is "Ironstruck... The Ironman Triathlon Journey." Another good book is "Going the Distance."
World champions Dave Scott and Mark Tinley also have training books on the market that can be helpful. For learning how to pace oneself in the triathlon swim "Total Immersion" is most likely one of the best swimming concepts available for triathletes. Buying a "Total Immersion" swim tape or book for the triathlete in your life will greatly improve their swim technique. Also, there is a lot of information to record when it comes to triathlon training especially if a triathlete wants to train with a consistent plan. A "triathlon training log" would be an exceptional gift for a triathlete. That way the swim, bikes, runs, stretching, yoga, and diet or whatever other activity they incorporate into their triathlon training could all be recorded on a daily basis.
As far as gifts pertaining to equipment and clothing, it's best to break the sport down into the three components.
SWIM- If you plan on buying swimsuits for a triathlete that will be used for training it's best to keep something in mind. Don't spend a lot of money on them. Most athletes do most of their training in chlorinated pools and chlorine eats $20 and $80 swimsuits equally. It makes no distinction between them. You would be far better off to buy 2 or 3 swimsuits at a mid-price as opposed to one very high end name brand product.
Consider doing up your own gift bag when buying swim products. It might include a towel, swim goggles, a pull-buoy, anti-fog for the goggles, swimsuits, chlorine fighting shampoo, and possibly a book or tape on swimming. Put it all in a handy sports bag and it will make a great gift.
BIKE- Buying most bikes and bike equipment can be a very personal choice and these decisions are often best left to the athlete. This is especially true in the bike itself, bike shoes, helmet and sunglasses. All of these items must "fit" properly and would not make the best of gifts unless you know in advance exactly what size and brand to buy etc. However, it takes much of the surprise out of buying the gift if you have to ask the athlete all that information first. It's best to stick with bike gifts that are flexible and useful. For instance an assortment of gels, protein bars, and energy supplement formulas that the triathlete can try out at different times and possibly find nutrition sources that work best for them are a good choice. Water bottles, cycling gloves, and cycling jerseys are fairly standard and easy to buy. All you need to know for the gloves or jerseys is the basic size of the athlete. A bike pump or a kit for changing flat tires are also a thoughtful choice.
RUN- As in biking, it's best to let the athlete purchase running shoes and sunglasses on their own. However, there are still many options when it comes to buying running gifts. A heart monitor can greatly increase the benefit of training and also, when used properly, can prevent over-training injuries. Many athletes also use heart monitors in their races so they can pace themselves properly. A fuel belt is also an excellent choice. A fuel belt is made to "balance" the drinks that the athlete carries during training or a race. The belt attaches around the waist and has 4 or 6 pockets for small size containers of fluid. They are placed strategically around the body to afford balance and comfort of use. These are far better than one heavy water-bottle that begins to weigh quite a lot in the late stages of a race where every discomfort is magnified. Every triathlete should wear a cap for protection from the sun and to go along with that you might consider adding some sunblock to go along with the cap.
Being properly prepared is a major key to enable triathletes to get the most enjoyment and success out of their triathlon training and racing. When you buy them well thought-out gifts you are helping them achieve their triathlon dreams.
My name is Ray and I've been an endurance athlete for over 30 years. I've competed in over 30 marathons, 2 --- 50 mile races, 14 Ironman triathlons and countless shorter races.
I've created a website called "Ironstruck." The main purpose is to provide training and racing tips for the beginner triathlete and novice Ironman. come for a visit... ironstruck.ca ironstruck.ca
I have also written three triathlon books. Two are for those who have an Ironman triathlon in their future. "Ironstruck... The Ironman Triathlon Journey" and "Ironstruck? 500 Ironman Triathlon Questions and Answers" have been well received by the tri community.
My latest book "Triathlete In Transition" is for the very beginner triathlete and is also being well received.
If you enjoy my articles on Ezine, then VISIT stores.lulu.com/store.php?fAcctID=741102 My Ironstruck bookstore and have a look at the books that can guide you and inspire you at your begin your own journey.
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